Extraordinary Measures for Career Searches

Regrettably, many people are suddenly finding themselves unemployed, for a variety of reasons. Some unemployment is due to layoffs, cutbacks, decreased profits or businesses folding. In some cases, it is outsourcing or having employees doing multiple jobs so as not to require adding staff. Whatever the reason, the impetus is there for thinking outside of the proverbial box when you discover that your source of income has suddenly vanished.

In some instances, people have remained in their jobs whether happy or unhappy, simply for the sake of receiving the weekly or bi-weekly paycheck and benefits. When this is no longer an option, it may be an occasion to seek some gratification from the work that you do, rather than simply collecting a check.

Interview a number of your closest and perhaps not-so-closest friends and relatives, assuming that they can be trusted to provide reliable information. Ask them what your strengths are. Determine what they think you do well. Ask if they would be able to recommend you for a position and if so, which one would it be. This process is likely to provide some valuable insights. Maybe you've displayed strengths as a customer service representative or health care professional and didn't make yourself aware of it. Summarize the information and see if there are any patterns that may suggest a new career path.

Go through the want ads, both in the newspaper and the internet. But don't go to the areas where you have always gone in a job search. Review every one of them. If you see something that you've never done but always thought of doing and it looks interesting or fun or exciting, pursue it. If you love plants but have always worked indoors, research landscaping positions. If you love children but you've been typing or answering phones, check into working in day care or community centers. You may discover that many of these require no formal training but will provide in-service training.

Think about retail, from a new perspective. If you love books, think about a book store where you can be surrounded by people who share your interests. If you're inspired by fashion and cosmetics, investigate a career in retail that caters to these tastes. If you have a passion for screws and bolts and chain saws, it's likely that one of the big warehouse stores is looking for someone with a terrific attitude, good feet and the ability to work varied hours. Admittedly, retail doesn't traditionally pay very much but with patience, good client skills and the right venue, you may easily replace your income.

Finally, investigate working at home, particularly when it involves doing something for which you have passion. This becomes easier if you have some capital with which to begin, but in lieu of that resource, start with the skills that you already possess. If you believe yourself to be a writer, search for those venues where you can earn money doing multiple writing jobs. If you're passionate about health care delivery, you may investigate taking the requisite courses to immerse yourself many different types of health care professional professions. Maybe you're good with creating beaded or metal jewelry. The community colleges frequently offer low-cost courses in these and other arts and crafts. There's no reason not to learn the necessary skills and research the craft fairs in your area. With spring coming, you can always create a combination craft fair/garage sale at your own home.

A word of caution - if some income-generating program looks too good to be true, it probably is. Do substantial research. Make certain that you speak with people who have participated in each offer, in order to develop adequate information. Be sure that you learn how to develop a business plan and consult a tax adviser so that you know how to maintain your records.

Think outside your area of safety and comfort and try something you've always wanted to do. Friends and family will be eager to assist, you'll make it possible to succeed in a new area and you'll have the glorious ability to make all of your own business decisions. Age is not much of an issue in this decision. We all know those who took up violin or oil painting or marathon running after waiting many years to do so. This is the best time to try and an even better one to succeed.